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ERROR_HANDLE_EOF: 8 Best Fixes
8 min. read
Published onSeptember 26, 2024
published onSeptember 26, 2024
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For fixing Windows errors, we recommend Fortect:
Fortect will identify and deploy the correct fix for your Windows errors. Follow the 3 easy steps to get rid of Windows errors:
ERROR_HANDLE_EOF is easier to fix if you follow this DIY troubleshooting guide.
You might face Windows update and driver installation errors where the task ends abruptly. In all such cases, the installer can’t read the whole installation package.
I’ve recreated the issue in a test environment and have tried several troubleshooting approaches. Here are the methods that worked out for me!
What Is ERROR_HANDLE_EOF?
ERROR_HANDLE_EOF is a Windows error that means asoftware code,package installer, ormultimedia playeris trying to read a file beyond its last byte. It usually occurs because the faulty program expects more data than what’s already in the source file or software code.
Here’s the detailed description:
It commonly occurs during:
How To Fix ERROR_HANDLE_EOF
Now, let me walk you through the proven methods to fix error code 38 (0x26), “Reached the end of the file.”
Try These Basic Fixes First
Windows Updatewill start filling the directory with the necessary files.
Fix File Permissions Issues
Your Windows User Account must possess enoughRead and Write permissionsto a file so apps can read and write files seamlessly. Often, Read and Write permissions might get overwritten byDenyactions if permissions have been set up incorrectly. Follow these instructions to check and rectify them:
Check for and Fix Disk Issues
If ERROR_HANDLE_EOF is due to HDD errors, thenError checkingcan help. Here’s how to utilize that:
Now, try to access or run the same file and see if the issue is fixed.
Fix Windows File System With SFC and DISM Scans
If you repeatedly face theERROR_HANDLE_EOFerror when installingWindows Updatesordevice drivers, follow these steps:
Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
Try the following troubleshooting instructions if you experience the, “38 (0x26) Reached the end of the file.” error frequently when updating Windows:
Apply Service Pack Updates Manually
If ERROR_HANDLE_EOF is showing up on a Windows 7 PC, especially when you’re installing aService Pack update, try this method. A workaround is to apply theService Pack updatemanually:
Restore the PC to a Previous Configuration
If you regularly back up your system, you can use a Windows System Restore Point to revert the PC configuration to a previous, working state:
Reset the PC
You might need to reset the device if you face the ERROR_HANDLE_EOF intermittently, after several troubleshooting sessions. Here’s how:
Summary
So, now you know how to fix ERROR_HANDLE_EOF in any Windows PC.
Try the troubleshooting suggestions in the order they appear to resolve the problem in the least possible time.
You can also read about how tofix file system errorsandrepair corrupted system files in Windows.
More about the topics:Windows,windows 10,Windows 11
Vlad Turiceanu
Windows Editor
Passionate about technology,Windows, and everything that has a power button, he spent most of his time developing new skills and learning more about the tech world.
Coming from a solid background in PC building and software development, with a complete expertise in touch-based devices, he is constantly keeping an eye out for the latest and greatest!
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Vlad Turiceanu
Windows Editor
Coming from a solid background in PC building and software development, he’s a Windows 11 Privacy & Security expert.
